Jason Wu (Photo : Reuters)

Jason Wu, the 29-year-old fashion leader has come a long way. At such a young age, the designer has already created classic collections and has dressed some of world's most powerful figures. It would only be right that the wunderkind shared some of his success secrets.

Tuesday (July 10), Wu participated in the YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund's "Breakfast with the Boss" series and answered questions from a selection of aspiring fashion students. The 16 fashion hopefuls were in NYC for summer internships. Wu connected with them with his conversational approach; he spoke about his humble beginnings, his collaboration for Target, and of course the famous Michelle Obama dress. Despite his wonderful achievements, Wu made it clear that all that glitters isn't gold. Beyond all the glitz and glamour, fashion is a tough industry.  "It's not easy, it's not magical like that," he said. "It's a lot of hard work and dedication." Wu also shared advice for staying sane in this hectic business, "Stay on schedule, don't wait until the last minute. [...] Sometimes you just need a good night of sleep."

Like Us on Facebook

Wu was born in Taiwan but grew up in Vancouver. He started designing as a child when he sewed doll's clothes. By age 16, he freelanced creating doll's clothes for toy company, Integrity Toys, which he soon became creative director of. He later decided to become a fashion designer and perfected his craft at Parsons The New School for Design.  What really launched Wu into a household name, was the dress he designed for First Lady, Michelle Obama. 

President Obama and first lady Michelle wearing Jason Wu at the Western Regional Inaugural Ball in Washington